Sri Lanka Celebrates 2 Millionth Tourist Arrival in 2024!

Milestone Marks a Thriving Year for Tourism as Visitors Flock to the Island Paradise

Sri Lanka hit a historic milestone by welcoming its two millionth tourist of 2024, the first time since 2018 that the country has achieved this feat. Thai traveler Prasan Ingkanunt, accompanied by his wife and sister, was greeted at Bandaranaike International Airport with traditional dances and special mementos.

This achievement reflects the tourism industry’s remarkable recovery after years of challenges, including the Easter attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and an economic downturn. With over 10,000 daily arrivals last week, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau credits strategic government efforts, global PR campaigns, and the country’s irresistible attractions for this success.

Named among the world’s top destinations by Forbes and National Geographic in 2024, Sri Lanka continues to captivate travelers with its diverse experiences—from beaches to wildlife. Plans for free visas to travelers from 39 countries in 2025 aim to sustain this growth, with a bold target of 3 million arrivals and $5 billion in revenue.

This milestone signals a brighter future for Sri Lanka as it reclaims its place as a global travel hotspot.